An Analysis of Changes in Critical Thinking Ability, Open-Mindedness, and Farm Policy Opinions of Participants in the Kellogg Farmers Study Program.

Rothert, Lowell Frederick

This study dealt with the relationship of educational background, age, sex, and liberal education to critical thinking and open-mindedness for participants (119 Michigan farmers, aged about 25-35, and their wives) in an extensive continuing education program. Three groups admitted to the Kellogg Farmers Study Program (KFSP) in 1965, 1966, and 1967, respectively, comprised the treatment groups. Control subjects consisted of three other groups interviewed and tested but not admitted. (The KFSP is a three year program featuring study institutes, travel seminars, and independent study.) Findings included the following: (1) the KFSP had only limited success in helping develop critical thinking skills, reading skills, greater open-mindedness, and skills in identifying agricultural alternatives; (2) more highly educated subjects had higher initial critical thinking ability and open-mindedness, but less educated subjects generally made higher gains during the courses; (3) participants improved slightly over the three year period, while nonparticipants declined slightly; (4) participants, but not their wives, became better able to identify realistic solutions to farm policy problems. (Author/LY)